CVE-2002-0410 in Aeromail
Summary
by MITRE
send_message.php in AeroMail before 1.45 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files on the server, instead of just uploaded files, via an attachment that modifies the filename to be uploaded.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/18/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0410 affects AeroMail versions prior to 1.45 and represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the send_message.php component. This weakness stems from inadequate input validation and file handling mechanisms within the email application's attachment processing functionality. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to bypass intended security restrictions and access arbitrary files on the server filesystem, extending beyond the normal scope of uploaded file operations. The flaw specifically manifests when attackers manipulate the filename parameter of attachments to include directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, enabling them to navigate the file system and retrieve sensitive data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the insecure file path construction and validation logic within AeroMail's message sending functionality. When users attempt to send emails with attachments, the application processes the filename parameter without proper sanitization or validation against allowed file paths. This creates an environment where maliciously crafted filenames can traverse the directory structure and access files outside the intended upload directory. The vulnerability is classified as a directory traversal attack pattern that maps to CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. The flaw operates at the application layer and can be exploited through HTTP requests that manipulate the attachment filename parameter, making it particularly dangerous as it requires no authentication or privileged access to execute.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-0410 extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can potentially expose sensitive system information including configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and user data. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain insights into the application architecture, identify other potential weaknesses, and escalate their attacks. The vulnerability may also expose system files that could provide attackers with information about the underlying operating system, installed applications, and server configurations. This reconnaissance capability significantly increases the risk profile of the compromised system, as it enables attackers to plan more sophisticated attacks targeting other system components. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality aspect of the CIA triad and can lead to data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate implementation of proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's file handling processes. System administrators should upgrade to AeroMail version 1.45 or later, which includes patched security controls that properly validate and restrict file paths during attachment processing. Additional protective measures include implementing strict file path validation that rejects any input containing directory traversal sequences, establishing proper access controls and permissions on file upload directories, and implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious filename patterns. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and code reviews focusing on file handling operations, particularly in web applications that process user-supplied file names. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers directory and file searches, and T1566, which addresses credential access through various attack vectors. Regular security monitoring and log analysis should be implemented to detect anomalous file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.